Echoes & Variations
Solo Exhibition | Debora Stewart
Main floor gallery
Main floor gallery
- Exhibit Dates: June 1 - August 15, 2026
- Reception: June 5, 5:00-7:30pm
Exhibit Info & Statement
June 1 - August 15, 2026
Solo Exhibition
Solo Exhibition
Echoes & VariationsMy artwork is rooted in a deep connection to the natural world, expressed through abstraction. I am especially drawn to the emotional presence of flowers and gardens—places where memory, beauty, and impermanence meet. Using soft pastel, acrylics, and oil on canvas, I translate the rhythms and gestures of nature into expressive marks, luminous layers, and vibrant color fields. My process is intuitive and layered, often beginning with energetic gesture and ending in quiet contemplation. I let the painting evolve organically, allowing the spirit of the moment—whether from my own garden or a passing impression—to guide me. Each piece becomes a conversation between intention and spontaneity. Though I discovered my creative voice early, it wasn’t until later in life that I could fully devote myself to the path of a professional artist. That journey has given me a deep appreciation for resilience, reinvention, and the power of art to connect us to something greater than ourselves. In addition to creating, I find joy in teaching and encouraging others to explore abstraction through workshops and mentorship. I believe that art is not only a form of personal expression, but also a powerful tool for reflection, growth, and community. About the ArtistDebora Stewart, PSA-MP, IAPS-MC, is a contemporary artist recognized for her evocative
abstract interpretations of flowers, gardens, and landscapes. Working in soft pastel, acrylic, and oil, she layers gesture, color, and memory into compositions that capture the rhythms of nature and the essence of fleeting moments. Stewart is a Master Pastelist with the Pastel Society of America and a member of the Masters Circle of the International Association of Pastel Societies. She is also the author of Abstract Art Painting: Expressions in Mixed Media (Random House/2015), which has become a resource for artists interested in abstraction. Her work has been exhibited widely in galleries across the United States, and she has been honored with numerous awards in national and international pastel exhibitions. Stewart’s paintings have also been selected for invitational exhibitions in France and China, underscoring her international reach and recognition. As an educator, Stewart has taught workshops throughout the U.S., sharing her knowledge of pastel and mixed media with artists at all levels. She has also served as a juror for pastel exhibitions, contributed to leading art publications, and developed extensive online educational resources. Stewart lives in Iowa with her husband and miniature schnauzer. Her daily encounters with gardens and landscapes continue to inspire her creative journey. |
Exhibit Images
Catalogue
Exhibition Catalogue
